Ohio Farm Bureau is taking a close look at Gov. John Kasich’s 1,600-page mid-biennium review (MBR), a package of policy and budgetary provisions that lay out Kasich’s goals for the year. The MBR has been split out into 14 separate bills so legislative committees can consider them. The MBR is comprehensive and covers everything from K-12 and higher education to various tax changes to amusement ride inspection fees.

Working through Ohio Farm Bureau, farmers were actively engaged in the multi-year process of drafting, writing and revising the law. The bill, the first of its kind in the nation, was first passed by the Senate. The House recently passed its version, which the Senate is expected to approve. It will then go to Gov. John Kasich for his signature.

After studying State Issue 1, which will appear on the May ballot, Ohio Farm Bureau’s board of trustees is encouraging a “Yes” vote. Here’s some background on the issue so you can make an informed decision.

Water quality and agriculture stories will be on the front page for months and years to come. Ohio Farm Bureau is working with reporters to draw their attention to agriculture’s commitment to accept responsibility and act responsibly.

Gov. John Kasich has recommended the Clean Ohio Fund receive $100 million to fund the preservation of farmlands and open spaces and improve outdoor recreational opportunities. The proposal is part of the $2.386 billion capital budget bill that is usually enacted every two years to provide funds for improving the state’s educational and public-service infrastructure.

More changes could be in store for Ohio’s deer hunting regulations. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife recently modified its 2014-2015 hunting regulation proposals after considering public input and reviewing data.

Dr. Emily Buck of New Bloomington was presented with a Case IH Farmall 45A tractor at local Case IH dealer Evolution Ag, for being named a top three finalist in American Farm Bureau’s Excellence in Agriculture award. The award recognizes successful young agricultural professionals who are actively contributing and growing through their involvement with Farm Bureau and agriculture.

Thanks to a Farm Bureau member, Ohio Farm Bureau was reminded of the need to offer further education about a new Ohio income tax deduction that may apply to your taxes this year. Many farmers may not be aware of this new deduction.

Agriculture Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Doug O’Brien recently visited Athens County to announce a grant award of more than $198,000 to help Rural Action and the Southeast Ohio Food Hub Network expand the distribution of locally grown foods.

At Nationwide, we offer several discounts – but not everyone understands how to find these savings. Contact your agent for a no-cost On Your Side Review to learn which discounts you may be eligible for. Here are a few of the savings opportunities your insurance policy review may uncover:

The Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation helps smaller, community-based groups through a series of Agricultural Action and Awareness Grants. The grants help groups that often find the larger-scale, public and private grant solicitation process daunting. The competitively awarded grants support programs and projects focusing on agricultural education and ecological and/or economic development. The Foundation awarded $25,000 in grants for the 2014 program year.

Hundreds of Ohio Farm Bureau members came to Columbus to discuss current political issues and meet with lawmakers during the organization’s annual Ag Day at the Capital. Here are some highlights from the event:

Thirty-three high school students from across the state learned how to take action in the government process by participating in the Ohio Youth Capitol Challenge program. Sponsored by Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, 4-H and FFA, the policy development program took place Feb. 18-19 in Columbus in conjunction with Ohio Farm Bureau’s Ag Day at the Capitol.

Ohio Farm Bureau Director of Agricultural Law Leah Curtis explains why landowners are seeing higher taxes due to CAUV. Also, a list of counties that will see reappraisal and updates with CAUV this year.

Members of Ohio Farm Bureau's Young Agricultural Professionals State Committee presented a check to Dana Ward of the Mid Ohio Food Bank in February. The committee raised $2,850 through the sale of t-shirts that carried positive messages about agriculture. The shirts were sold online and during the group's winter conference.